EDITOR
Kambuga Sub-County in Kanungu District continues to grapple with rampant domestic violence, prompting the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) to hold a community sensitization event on human rights at Nyarutojo Parish.
The event sparked intense discussions among residents, who identified several root causes of domestic violence. These included alcoholism among partners, infidelity or suspicion of cheating, disputes over family land and adult children evicting parents, poor household hygiene, excessive smartphone usage on platforms like WhatsApp and TikTok, lack of respect within families, and conflicts over land ownership.
Theopista Twembi, a human rights activist from the UHRC Kabale regional office, encouraged residents to report human rights violations to the appropriate authorities for action and support. She also stressed the importance of exercising rights responsibly and avoiding their misuse.
Evelyne Arinaitwe, also from the Kabale office, underscored the significance of safeguarding fundamental rights such as life, personal liberty, equality, and fair trials, which are protected under Uganda’s Constitution and international laws.
Kambuga Sub-County Chairperson Tumwesigye Leonard expressed gratitude to UHRC for engaging the community. He acknowledged that local leaders frequently mediate domestic violence cases and hoped that the Commission’s involvement would lighten their workload while promoting respect for human rights.
Marito Judith Komugisha, from UHRC’s Investigations Department, emphasized that mutual respect within families is critical for fostering a strong and progressive community.
The sensitization initiative has instilled hope among residents for reducing domestic violence and encouraging greater respect for human rights in Kambuga Sub-County.